Category - human rights

The police and the Director of Public Prosecutions are facing strong criticism for bringing charges against peaceful protestors who wore fancy dress at the G20 demonstrations in April. They are accused of impersonating police officers.

Nine Methodist Church leaders in Fiji have returned to court as the military regime continues to crack down on those who speak out against it. The nine Methodists have been banned from preaching and attending meetings.

The authorities in Azerbaijan are facing allegations of abuse and repression towards both Muslim and Christian worshipers. A major Sunni mosque has been closed down while Baptists have accused the police of intimidation and violence.

A hearing into allegations that a teacher promoted racist views in the classroom has been delayed after police cited fears of violence. Adam Walker is accused of promoting hostility to asylum-seekers, gay people and Muslims.

The Prime Minister has issued an apology for the homophobic hounding of the wartime codebreaker Alan Turing. He was driven to suicide in the 1950s by criminal prosecution and “medical treatment” imposed in response to his sexuality.

Nine Methodist Church leaders appeared in court in Fiji yesterday, pleading not guilty to charges of breaching Public Emergency Regulations. They have been released on bail but are forbidden to preach, speak in public or meet with each other.